REVIEW GUNDAM UNIVERSE Zaku II [ Unidentified Type ] Solari, Bandai

This is review of Gunpla action Figure GU:GUNDAM UNIVERSE Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari from The Netflix Series - Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance.

Gunpla action Figure GU:GUNDAM UNIVERSE Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari Review

Bandai’s GUNDAM UNIVERSE Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari is a distinctive figure from the Netflix CG anime Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem of Vengeance. This Zaku retains its iconic silhouette while introducing bold design variations, unique detailing, and a striking color scheme. Below is a comprehensive review of its design, features, and performance.

Design and Aesthetics

Unique Features

Head Design: The standout features are the Mono-eye guard and two asymmetrical commander antennas, which distinguish this Zaku from its predecessors.

Color and Details: The model’s body is adorned with complex surface detailing that adds texture and depth. However, the thicker Mono-eye guard somewhat obscures the visibility of the Mono-eye, which is painted in metallic hues.

Series Signature Style

The body proportions reflect the bulkier, exaggerated style typical of the GUNDAM UNIVERSE line. Enhanced detailing adds a gritty and mechanical look, potentially unnerving for those with trypophobia.

Articulation and Build

Articulation Range

The model employs standard GUNDAM UNIVERSE joints, ensuring a satisfactory level of articulation. The torso rotation is slightly limited (around 30°), but this is one of the more mobile figures in the line.

Arms and Shoulders

Right Shoulder Shield: A major redesign featuring a layered, two-plate structure, offering flexibility through ball-joint attachments. It can also be removed or held like a weapon, thanks to the integrated grip. The asymmetry in shoulder armor adds a rugged battlefield aesthetic.

Legs and Balance

The sturdy leg design contributes to the figure’s stability, allowing it to hold dynamic poses without additional support.

Accessories and Weapons

Zaku Machine Gun

The Zaku’s machine gun stays true to its original design while incorporating more detailed molding. The foregrip is static, limiting some posing options, but two-handed poses are achievable.

Heat Hawk

The iconic Heat Hawk is faithfully included. While it lacks mounting capabilities seen in the anime, it retains its functionality for recreating key battle scenes.

Comparisons

When placed alongside ROBOT Spirits Zaku or GUNDAM UNIVERSE Gundam EX, the Zaku II (Solari) appears stockier but slightly shorter, emphasizing its grounded and durable aesthetic.

Performance in Action

The Zaku II performs well in action poses:

Defensive Poses: Shield positioning is versatile, offering realistic defensive stances.
Melee Combat: The Heat Hawk poses effectively capture intense battle scenes, though the lack of waist rotation can limit dramatic poses.

Missing Features

Despite the omission of a bazooka, its absence doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience since the Zaku’s primary armaments are well-represented.

Summary

Pros

Striking Visuals: Unique head design, bold detailing, and vibrant color scheme.
Faithful Adaptation: Stays true to its appearance in Requiem of Vengeance.
Dynamic Poseability: Good articulation for a range of stances and actions.

Cons

Obscured Mono-eye: The thick guard detracts slightly from the model’s expressiveness.
No Mounting Options: Missed opportunity to replicate weapon mounting from the anime.

Overall, the GUNDAM UNIVERSE Zaku II [Unidentified Type] Solari is a well-crafted and visually impressive addition to the GUNDAM UNIVERSE lineup. It successfully captures the rugged charm and unique traits of this Zaku variant, making it a worthwhile purchase for fans of the series or collectors looking for distinctive designs.

If the Requiem of Vengeance series expands, more iconic suits like the Gouf Custom and GM would make exciting additions—ideally, with more intricate features seen in ROBOT Spirits releases.